Community participation of non-working older adults with and without disability: The relationship with perception of the neighborhood environment

Objective: The neighborhood environment's role in the disparities of community participation for people with and without disabilities is unclear. This study examined whether a positive perception of neighborhood environment was associated with community participation for non-working older adults with and without limitations in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL).

Methods: 2006 SEPA Household Health Survey data were analyzed for relationships between four indicators of neighborhood environment (feelings of belonging, trust, willingness of neighbors to assist others, and work together for neighborhood improvement), and participation in local programs or groups. Adults aged 60+ (N=2,396) without any reported basic- or I-ADL limitations (no disability,72.0%) were compared to those with at least one IADL limitation (28.0%). A summary neighborhood score was created (additive of individual items, ranging from 0-5) to assess a less versus more positive perception.

Results: Compared to people without disability, people with disability were significantly more likely (p<0.0001) to be older, of Black, Asian, or other race, assistive device users, have a chronic condition(s), poor-fair perceived health status, signs of major depression, and high school or less education. People without disability compared to those with had a significantly more positive perception of their environment and were more likely to participate. Regression modeling revealed belonging (OR=3.2,p<0.001) and improvement (OR=2.0,p<0.001) were associated with community participation for people with disabilities and the same factors plus assistance were significant for those without disabilities but with weaker OR.

Conclusion: Findings support disparities in community participation exist and highlight the importance of a positively perceived neighborhood.